WEST Midlands Fire Service chiefs have issued an urgent warning to people not to have barbecues while conditions are hot and dry, especially in public open spaces.

The Met Office has issued an ‘amber’ warning for extreme heat, lasting until Sunday, and temperatures across the West Midlands are forecast to reach the mid-30s.

According to the Met Office’s Fire Severity Index, any fires that start could become ‘very high’ in severity. Given the warnings fire chiefs have urged people to do all they can to prevent fires.

Phil Loach, West Midlands Fire Service’s chief fire officer, said: “Last month, included the period when a ‘red’ extreme heat warning was in place, our staff worked exceptionally hard in challenging circumstances to keep our communities safe “For the whole of July, our average attendance time for serious incidents in high-risk areas was four minutes and 50 seconds, which is within our five-minute standard. The average for outdoor fires was six minutes 50 Seconds - well within our 20-minute standard. This was in spite of increased demand caused by the heatwave.

“I want to reassure people that, as ever, we have plans in place 24/7 to ensure that we can answer 999 calls and respond to fires and other emergencies. “However, I would also appeal to everyone to do what they can to ensure fires don’t start in the first place. Please also check on more vulnerable family members, friends, and neighbours for whom the heat might be an extra burden. “We are urging people not to have barbecues while the conditions are so hot and dry, especially in public open spaces. They’re not allowed in many of our local councils’ parks.”

He also urged people to beware the dangers of swimming in open water – even during a heatwave – and he said: “I’d ask parents and carers to warn their children of the risks. Everyone needs to err on the side of caution.

“Sadly, many people across the country have already died this year after getting into difficulties in open water. We can all help to ensure there aren’t more deaths.”